Minneapolis City Council members are looking to give renters facing eviction a longer notice period before they must vacate their homes. Council Member Jason Chavez, Council President Elliott Payne, and Council Member Aurin Chowdhury are spearheading the change, introducing a notice of intent to extend the current 14-day pre-eviction notification period to 30 days. "We will officially begin the legislative process to amend the current 14-day pre-eviction notification to a 30-day pre-eviction notification," Chavez said, according to Jason Chavez - Minneapolis Ward 9.
This proposed amendment comes as a response to the difficulties many tenants face when trying to secure legal aid in eviction proceedings. The additional time is expected to increase the chances for legal representation, as finding assistance on such short notice has been a consistent struggle. "This could help improve the chances of tenants who are facing rental evictions to receive legal aid services to be represented in court," said Chavez.
By potentially doubling the time renters have to negotiate with landlords, obtain necessary funds, or find legal counsel, the city council is looking to decisively address and mitigate the distress caused by the eviction process. "I’m excited to work on this policy with my colleagues to help reduce rental evictions in Minneapolis," concluded Chavez in the statement posted on Facebook.
